Staten Island, NY – Wagner College Director of Athletics Brendan Fahey has announced the addition of men's fencing and competitive cheerleading as varsity sports, bringing the Seahawks' number of varsity sports up to 28.
In a corresponding move, current head women's fencing coach David Sierra will take over the head coaching duties for the newly formed men's program. A search for a head cheerleading coach will begin immediately.
"We are thrilled to add men's fencing and competitive cheerleading as varsity sports", Fahey commented. "Our fencing and cheerleading programs have made a great impact on our athletic department in recent years and we are excited to build on their success as we expand our athletic family."
Both programs will start competing during the 2023-24 academic year.
The men's fencing program will compete in the NCAA's Mid-Atlantic/South Region. Wagner's women's fencing team recently completed its sixth season of competition and sent a program-record seven student-athletes to the NCAA Regional competition.
"I am incredibly excited about the addition of a Men's Fencing Team in 2023," Sierra said. "It will open up additional competition opportunities for us and allow us to build on the success of the women's program. The addition of a Men's Team and the resources the administration is committing positions Wagner College as a serious competitor in Division I Fencing and will help us attract the kinds of student-athletes who can make an immediate impact on the program."
Entering his first season as the Seahawks' head fencing coach, Sierra brings a plethora of fencing experience to Grymes Hill, following a 29-year run as an athlete, referee, and coach at various clubs in USA Fencing.
The Seahawks' cheerleading squad, which will compete nationally, will be a member of the Universal Cheer Association (UCA) and Universal Dance Association (UDA).
Cheerleading has a rich tradition at Wagner, with student-athletes participating at the club level for more than four decades.
Prospective student-athletes interested in the men's fencing program can fill out the recruit questionnaire here.
Prospective student-athletes interested in the competitive cheerleading program can fill out the recruit questionnaire here.
